[Dentistry and epilepsy].

Abstract

Epileptic seizures are the third most common medical incident in dental surgeries. Dentists should ask patients about a history of epilepsy and should know how to manage an epileptic seizure. Falls caused by seizures increase the risk of dental injuries, and fixed dental replacements (e.g., tooth implants) are recommended to reduce the risk of aspiration. Phenytoin induces gingival hyperplasia in 50% to 60% of patients, treatment options include a switch to alternative anticonvulsant drugs and improved dental hygiene. In addition to conventional dental care, the use of electric toothbrushes and the application of chlorhexidine and regular professional dental cleaning may prevent the development of gingival hyperplasia. Local anaesthetic agents without added adrenalin should be chosen (e.g., Mepivacain and Articain). There are case reports of reflex epileptic seizures caused by (prolonged) brushing of teeth.

• Authors: L Pick, J Bauer
• Journal: Der Nervenarzt (Nervenarzt) Vol. 72 Issue 12 Pg. 946-9 (Dec 2001) ISSN: 0028-2804 [Print] Germany
• Vernacular Title: Zahnmedizin und Epilepsie.
• PMID: 11789440 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Anticonvulsants

Topics

• Anesthesia, Dental
• Anticonvulsants (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Dental Care
• Epilepsy (complications, therapy)
• Gingival Hyperplasia (chemically induced, therapy)
• Humans
• Oral Hygiene
• Tooth Injuries (etiology, therapy)